Getting Your Kids Back to School

Summer’s over, buses are warmed up, and teachers are back in the classroom. It’s normal for kids to be hesitant when returning to school after months of being free of routine, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Let’s look at some tips to get your kids into the school routine so they can be focused and productive.

Prepare for the First Day

If your child is anxious about going back to class or going to a new school, consider reaching out to your school before the first day for help. Many teachers and counselors are available before school starts for a consultation to prepare your child for their return better. Many schools can arrange a tour for you and your child so they are familiar with their surroundings and know what to expect, easing their nervousness. Furthermore, if your child hesitates, discuss why and try to address the issue with the teachers so they can make their transition more comfortable.

Go Supply Shopping

Kids need the right tools and supplies to hit the ground running on their first day back to school. Most schools hand out a list of everything your child will need for the school year, and it’s a good idea to shop as early as possible to avoid the last-minute rush. Take your kid shopping and allow them to pick out their favorite pens, notebooks, backpack, and other tools necessary to make them feel like they have more control over the process of returning to class.

Start Morning Routines Early

Many parents allow their kids the freedom to sleep in during the summer and set their own schedules for play, meals, and bedtime, which is fine. However, abruptly changing routines make it challenging for kids and parents, so it’s wise to begin transitioning them to the morning routine of getting ready for school during the last weeks of summer break. Establishing a routine bedtime, wake-up time, and breakfast time will make the first day back to school much easier for everyone.

Send Encouragement

Even if your child is well-prepared for returning to school, they may still feel overwhelmed the first few days before adjusting. Consider writing a note of encouragement and packing it with their lunch or snack to surprise them and let them know you’re thinking about them and wish them a successful time. A simple note of encouragement and love goes a long way to easing your child’s mind and keeping them focused on learning.

Practice Your Drop Off & Pick-Up Routines

Another source of anxiety for many children returning to school is being dropped off and picked up. They may have questions like, “Where do I go? Where can I wait? How long will I be there?” Before school starts, discuss with your school their policies and make a few practice runs of dropping your child off and picking them up, so they know what to expect so it’s familiar to them when they head back. If your child is riding the bus, take them to the pickup point so they can familiarize themselves with their surroundings and teach them how to get on and off the bus safely.

Make Friends

If your child is attending a new school, being there the first day and not knowing anyone can be overwhelming. Reach out on social media or ask around your neighborhood to find other parents who are sending their kids to the same school and see if you can schedule a playdate between the kids to help them make new friends and see familiar faces on their first day back. Having a friend or two on their first day back to school makes it more comfortable for kids and will relieve much of their stress and anxiety.

Some kids are chomping at the bit to go back to school, while others experience more hesitation. However, if you prepare early and do your best to acclimate your children to their new routines, it can make the process easier and less stressful for you and your child. At Kids R’ Kids, we’re committed to making learning fun. Our academies are nationally renowned, and we’re proud to be part of your community. We offer: